Senator Leahy wants to change this and has scheduled a markup hearing the week of Nov. 26. Months ago, he offered language clarifying that the government must obtain a warrant for all private messages; however, recently released bill language keeps the 180-day requirement for civil regulatory agencies like the FTC, SEC, and others.

It’s a general principal and right that government has to respect it’s citizens privacy. Government is generated by it’s citizens. Even if it’s a monarchy, if the citizens are repressed or abused, the reign of the king will falter. The country will falter. In our democracy, we generate the laws of governance. That’s not to say that they can’t be subverted, or that a parasitic relationship form. If it does, it is the fault of the people. People shouldn’t fear their government. Government should fear it’s people. That really is what history teaches. Even if it’s a constant battle for control.

So people should not fear their government. That is kind of like what Hitler told his people. Take a look at the Gallup polls regarding faith people have in various institutions. Congress has been at the bottom for several years.